The answer to the future popular sports trivia question around Tennessee will be: Kim Caldwell. As for the question, it will be: Who is the only coach to beat UConn’s women’s basketball team besides Pat Summitt?

No. 19 Tennessee outhustled and outworked No. 5 UConn in pulling the 80-76 upset on Thursday night in Knoxville. This was the Lady Vols’ first win over the Huskies since 2007, which was also a signature victory for first-year coach Kim Caldwell, who credited all to her players.

“I didn’t do it, they did it, they just made up their minds on if they wanted to do it and they did it,” Caldwell said after the game. “They can be excited for me, but I’m more excited for them.”

UConn’s Offense Struggled

UConn shot at 40.3% from the field, which is over 10% less than their season average.

Four UConn players registered double figures with freshman Sarah Strong leading the way with 18 points and nine rebounds. However, the Huskies weren’t as productive as they could have been, with two quarters shooting below 40%.

Veteran star Paige Bueckers averaged 18.7 points per game this season but struggled against the Lady Vols, going 5 of 16 for 14 points.

Rebounding Dominance

This wasn’t a surprise. The Huskies are not known for strong rebounding, while Tennessee is 17th in the nation in this regard, winning the rebounding battle 46-34. Talaysia Cooper led with eight rebounds.

Tennessee’s Record Deceptive

Despite five losses to SEC opponents, Tennessee’s depth of competition was evident. Three losses were by one or two points. The loss to UConn not only snapped the Huskies’ 11-game winning streak but also showcased Tennessee’s fighting spirit.

With this game, Tennessee improved to 17-5, looking ahead to tackle LSU next.